Biometric sensors

India’s foremost shop window and business hub for the security industry, Secutech India, is set to return from 25 – 27 April 2019 against a backdrop of rising government investment in smart city projects. Jointly organized by Asian Business Exhibition and Conferences Ltd (ABEC) and Messe Frankfurt Trade Fairs India Pvt. Ltd, the 2019 edition of the fair will introduce a new smart home zone to accommodate India’s growing home automation sector.
Indian Security Indu...

Matrix COSEC ARGO is a performance, design and engineering wonder that brings a modern design to the access control and time-attendance applications. The device is equipped with an enhanced 3.5” IPS LCD touchscreen for optimizing users’ visual experience. The door controller is designed to meet the aesthetics, technology and harsh environment application requirements of the large & multi-location enterprises, SME & SMB organizations.
Matrix COSEC ARGO Door Controller:
Enh...

Ping Identity, global identity defined security solutions provider, has announced new programs and benefits for its Technology Alliance and Channel Program partners, including a new online partner directory, app integrations catalog, education and training services, on-demand resources, and enhanced services designed to improve partner products and drive business. Ping is also recognizing Microsoft, Optiv and ProofID for their shared commitment to deliver innovative identity solutions to the mar...

Evolis announces the formation of a wholly-owned subsidiary in Tokyo, Evolis Japan K.K. The globally renowned French card issuance company designs, manufactures and commercializes a complete range of personalization and issuance solutions for plastic cards in various markets such as retail, hospitality, banking or public administrations across the globe.Evolis has been present since 2008 in Japan through a distributor. The creation of a local subsidiary aims at strengthening relations with local...

In preparation for ISC West, the largest converged security and public safety industry trade show, the Security Industry Association (SIA) has identified the top technology advancements to look out for at ISC West 2019. The “Top 8,” presented with ISC Security Events, represent the key technology advancements impacting the converged security and public safety landscape.
The “Top 8” Security Technologies At ISC West 2019:
Cloud
Artificial intelligence
Robotics/autono...

Genetec Inc., global technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence has announced a new version of Security Center, the company’s open-architecture platform that unifies video surveillance, access control, automatic license plate recognition (ALPR), communications, and analytics.
With customisable live dashboards, enhanced privacy protection features, a brand-new map-driven mobile app, and new functionalities that help users actively monitor...

News

It has been announced that next year will see IFSEC move to a brand-new dateline of 19 - 21 May and welcome three prestigious events alongside it at ExCeL London; Security & Counter Terror Expo (SCTX), Ambition and Forensics Europe Expo.
Focal Point For Security Industry
Building on a rich history of the two exhibitions - IFSEC steeped in the trade and commercial security world and Security & Counter Terror Expo immersed in national security – the collaboration of these key events has been designed to meet the strength of demand for a central focal point for the security industry.
The additional synergies between the first responder focused, Ambition and Forensics Europe Expo, which currently run alongside SCTX, and FIREX International as well as the wider security community, also lend additional diversity and strength to this new alliance.
Extensive Security Products On Display ExCeL London will become the global destination for the security community, pushing the boundaries of security product innovation and expertise
ExCeL London will become the global destination for the security community, pushing the boundaries of security product innovation and expertise. 38,000 trade, commercial, public and policing security professionals will unite at one venue to discover the most extensive range of security suppliers on offer. In doing so, the industry will see a single marketplace for the security ecosystem made up of installers, government end users, corporate end users, integrators, manufacturers and distributors. The announcement of the move to stage IFSEC and SCTX together at London’s ExCeL from 2020 is already being warmly welcomed, as the security industry look forward to seeing one sole event for the whole community.
“This has come at the perfect time for the security industry. The BSIA are excited to be supporting this major new partnership between the UK’s two leading security exhibitions. We have a long-standing partnership with IFSEC and we look forward to extending our welcome to SCTX.” Mike Reddington, CEO, BSIA
Dahua Technology To Participate In IFSEC, SCTX
“Dahua is excited to see this partnership between IFSEC and SCTX in 2020. It will provide a rewarding balance of end-users, consultants, installers and integrators. This presents a fantastic opportunity for likeminded end-users and integrators to exchange ideas with manufacturing security professionals.” Steve Norman, Sales Director, Dahua Technology UK & Ireland
“Risk UK, Benchmark and Professional Security Installer welcome the news that Security & Counter Terror Expo is running alongside IFSEC in 2020. We have a long-standing association with this market sector via Risk UK magazine and associated media. We look forward to supporting SCTX and IFSEC in 2020.” Mark Quittenton, Managing Director, Risk UK, Benchmark and Professional Security Installer Magazines
Hikvision To Take Part In SCTX And IFSEC 2020
Hikvision are pleased to hear the news that IFSEC and Security & Counter Terror Expo will run alongside each other in 2020"
“Hikvision are pleased to hear the news that IFSEC and Security & Counter Terror Expo will run alongside each other in 2020. This is a good move forward for the security community, and we look forward to supporting this.” Justin Hollis, Marketing Director, Hikvision UK & Ireland
“IFSEC is always a great success for BRE Global / LPCB and we’re looking forward to showcasing the dynamic Attack Testing Zone to the SCTX and IFSEC 2020.” Richard Flint, LPCB Physical Security Certification Scheme Manager, LPCB / BRE
Global Security Industry To Attend
“IFSEC never stops surprising me. Great move for the whole security industry, getting SCTX alongside IFSEC in 2020. It’s going to be a massive set of shows.” Roy Cooper, Managing Director, Professional Security
Discussing this move for the market, the organizers of IFSEC and SCTX share their thoughts as they announce the culmination of these 18 month-long discussions to co-locate these events.
“The security industry is both broad and complex – and in recent years Clarion and UBM have come to realize that in this environment both IFSEC and SCTX had evolved in ways which were seeing them become increasingly complementary in both profile and audience.” said Tim Porter of Clarion Events.
SCTX 2020 To Be Global Counter Terror Arena
This is a great fit for IFSEC as it strengthens our message of the critical nature of security as a major global issue"
‘’SCTX is by far the most prestigious and market leading event in the counter terror arena, with a proven track record in drawing a high calibre audience of government specifiers, law enforcement and related crime intelligence agencies.” added Gerry Dunphy of IFSEC.
“This is a great fit for IFSEC as it strengthens our message of the critical nature of security as a major global issue. IFSEC will also highly complement this offering by continuing to champion integrated security for the trade and commercial markets. The prospect of these events, working in harmony, promoting expertise and guidance for the broader security environment has already been met with immense anticipation by the security community.”
Bringing the events together will offer exhibiting manufacturers and distributors an unrivalled opportunity to access the entire end-to-end security audience, with a greater number of security product buyers in one venue than any other security event across the globe. Over 600 exhibiting companies will join to represent all aspects of the security sector, ranging from the latest developments in commercial and corporate security through to critical national infrastructure and policing.

Iris ID, global provider of iris recognition technology, and GenKey, a trusted provider of biometric identification solutions, has announced the integration of iris recognition cameras and matching engine into GenKey’s biometric ID platform, to provide an all-in-one solution for various biometric registration and verification initiatives.
Advanced Security And Privacy
Iris ID iCAM TD100 and iCAM T10 cameras and IrisAccelerator matching engine have been integrated into GenKey’s ID solutions. GenKey’s ID platform has helped many governments and organizations to improve inclusivity, reduce fraud and improve time and cost efficiencies. IrisID, the world’s most deployed iris recognition platform, provides advanced security and privacy, which further enhances GenKey’s ID platform.
“GenKey’s ID platform is being used to identify and verify millions of people in several countries worldwide,” said Arnd Langguth, chief operating officer, GenKey. “We are experts in fingerprint biometrics, but our ID platform has been designed for multi-modality. Our customers expect proven, secure, high performance, that is why we choose IrisID. IrisID’s IrisAccelerator will plug-in seamlessly into our ID platform.”
Iris ID Biometrics Authentication Systems
The integration into Genkey’s ID platform now offers full deduplication on both modalities"
The Iris ID technology provides a fast, accurate and non-contact method of capturing citizens’ biometrics, identifying people and detecting duplicates. Iris ID authentication systems are used worldwide for access control, time and attendance checks, national ID programs, border crossings, voter registration, and many other applications. The company’s solutions are currently being used by public and private organizations across Africa and on five other continents.
Mohammed Murad, vice president of global sales and business development, Iris ID said the company’s technology is a natural fit with GenKey.
Integration With GenKey Biometrics ID Platform
“Our cameras are unaffected by dirt, grease, gloves, facial hair and other factors that can limit the quality of registration and identity verification of other biometric systems.” he said. “In addition to its speed and accuracy, our software has been proven to be highly effective for deduplication – the elimination of multiple registrations by the same person. The integration into Genkey’s ID platform now offers full deduplication on both modalities.”
GenKey’s ID platform is designed for capturing biographic and biometric data of individuals in small to large-scale registrations and ensuring that each subject stored is unique. Besides its standard registration, verification and reporting modules, the software has customized modules for biometric voter verification, election management and biometric member verification for healthcare, and other use cases.

Open Options, global provider of innovative access control solutions, has announced a new incentive program for their certified dealer channel.
The program offers two tiers of status, Advantage and Advantage Platinum, which are determined by specific criteria including annual sales, new Open Options sites sold, software maintenance coverage as well as dealer technician training requirements.
Exceeding Expectations
“We are extremely excited to introduce this program to our dealer channel,” said Open Options’ vice president of sales and business development, Ben Vestal. “While we have always offered the Advantage program for our premier partners, the new Advantage Platinum status expands the program and introduces another level of recognition and benefits to reward our loyal partners who continuously exceed expectations.”

The PSIA will show continued momentum for its Physical Logical Access Interoperability (PLAI) spec at ISC West 2019. “In past demos we were able to show some exchange of records between PACS systems, but this year we will have six vendors, and demonstrate existing employee identity data sets, which can be passed to other systems in the security environment beyond having just a clean start,” said David Bunzel, Executive Director of the PSIA.
Commercial PLAI Agent
One of the critical components is the introduction of an independent commercial PLAI Agent by Cruatech of Dublin, Ireland. This Agent acts as central hub, to allow interchange between disparate PACS and biometric vendors. “The introduction of the Cruatech Agent provides the means to effectively provide solutions to enterprise customers, solving an important problem in the industry–finding a method to have a single trusted source in an enterprise environment,” said Darren Wieder, Financial Director of Advanced Solutions for Convergint Technologies.
LenelS2 will showcase its new commercial PLAI adapter during the demo. “Our customers have been requesting PLAI and we believe it provides an effective means to support this industry need,” said John Marchioli, Product Manager, Software Platforms, LenelS2.

Global biometrics company, Fingerprint Cards AB (Fingerprints) has announced its Biometric Software Platform for payments, named FPC-BEP, targeting payment cards, wearables and USB dongles. The platform has been tailored to optimize the performance of its small and power-efficient biometric sensors for payments, which include the FPC1300-series and T-Shape module. Fingerprints can now offer card and device makers a complete hardware and software solution to secure biometric authentication and maximize the user experience.
Biometric Software Platform For Payments
As part of the Biometric Software Platform, Fingerprints has developed a new in-house algorithm, adapting its proven mobile algorithm, which verifies billions of 'touches' per day, to the specific needs of payment cards and payment devices. Extensive internal tests using a 1300-series sensor show impressive biometric performance and best-in-class robustness with <2% FRR* @ 1/20,000 FAR**, and the fastest matching time available on the market.
"Biometric performance can only be optimized when you consider the whole package; hardware and software working in harmony," comments Pontus Jägemalm, Chief Technology Officer at Fingerprints. "Our technology is used billions of times every day, and now we have poured our long and unrivaled experience from the mobile world into this software platform to maximize the performance in low-power and low-computing-power payment environments."

How does France organize its rescue services? What does civil defense look like in Italy? And what are the techniques and tactics used by American firefighters to combat forest fires? The answers to these and other questions will be provided at the upcoming Interschutz trade fair, which runs from 15 to 20 June 2020 in Hanover, Germany. On three dedicated days of the six-day show, individual countries will be in the spotlight – France on Tuesday, Italy on Wednesday and the United States on Thursday.
Security And Fire Safety Trade Fair
"As a globally renowned and massive trade fair for fire brigades, rescue services, civil protection and safety/security, Interschutz is the perfect place to think outside the box and learn from the experiences of others," says Martin Folkerts, Interschutz project manager for the Deutsche Messe team. "The challenges for rescuers around the world are similar. Our Partner Country Days are dedicated to promoting international networking and reaffirming a cross-border sense of community."
High-ranking visitor delegations from the respective featured nations are expected to attend the 2020 Partner Country Days. In addition, special activities are planned at group pavilions from the German federal states as well as on the open-air demonstration site. The three countries will also play an important role at Interschutz conferences and forums. Trade fair attendees will be informed about all the various activities on all the different Interschutz channels. And the trade fair catering service will also have a special culinary focus on each of the Partner Country Days.
Global Security Companies To Participate
At Interschutz, companies from around the globe will showcase their vehicles, equipment and technologies for protection and rescue services in a quest to conquer new markets. Visitors from Germany and abroad will find new ideas and technological innovations at Interschutz, where they can share their experience with others and generate new leads. In 2015, some 800 out of approximately 1500 exhibitors came from abroad, with visitor attendance of more than 21,000 stemming from outside Germany. And international journalists also showed keen interest in Interschutz, with more than 200 foreign journalists having made the trip to the Hannover Exhibition Center in 2015.

Expert commentary

Whether you are a veteran in the access control world or have never installed a card reader before, there are always ways to increase profits in the ever-evolving world of access control. The hope is that by considering a few key focal points, you can find ways to increase market share. Whether we are releasing an electronic lock through a simple intercom button or using biometric and multi-authentication based on a database; the tactics for bringing on more revenue is the same. Learning to focus on a few key items can help open up opportunities.
Business Access Controls
Understanding vertical markets is a strong strategy for success in increasing your profits with access controlIf you are new to access control, it’s important to determine the right product offerings for your business model and experience level of your team. Mistakes in estimating or installing can be costly and complex. Take advantage of manufacturer training both online and in the classroom for both your sales team and installation department. It’s important to understand the fire and building codes in your area to make sure you design the proper solution for your customers. Furthermore, understanding the products, components and proper wiring can save you money in labor and materials.
Today we will look at four focus points: Vertical Markets, Cloud-Based Access Control, Technology Upgrades, and Preventative Maintenance and Service Agreements. These four focal points are simple to implement and can be easily added to your current operation.
Vertical Markets
Understanding vertical markets is a strong strategy for success in increasing your profits with access control. The concept is that understanding a certain vertical and their security needs can increase your sales team’s marketability. If you spend your time focusing on the healthcare industry, for instance, you will see that HIPA requirements open doors for selling access control. Getting to know the regulatory concerns of different verticals is a great strategy for more effective salesHaving logs of who entered your HR files room or patient records storage is a crucial part of addressing privacy concerns. Getting to know the regulatory concerns of different verticals is a great strategy for more effective sales.
Another example could be apartment communities or other multifamily dwellings. In this competitive marketplace, these complexes are looking for ways to stand out in their market. Knowing this and being able to offer amenities like secured locks with Bluetooth credentials that tenants can open with their smartphones is a selling point for you and for your customer. Building on each customer you contact within a vertical is like free sales and marketing training. The more you learn from each potential client, the more you increase your conversation starters for the next potential client.
Cloud-Based Access Control
With the growing cloud-based access control market, integrators can find more opportunities in small businesses and vertical markets that typically wouldn’t be on the radar of your sales team. A typical card access system often makes the move from the traditional lock and key systems to electronic card access cost prohibitive. This is due to the large upfront costs for a server, software and annual licensing. With cloud access, integrators can offer less expensive upfront costs with low monthly subscription fees that cover all software updates, database backups, security patches and more.
The real benefit for the integrator is the reoccurring revenue. By helping our clients save money on server, software and IT infrastructure costs, we are securing reoccurring revenue for our companies that increase our profitability. Building reoccurring revenue not only provides cash flow but also keeps your name on the top of the minds of your customer and that leads to additional sales.
By helping clients save money on server, software and IT infrastructure costs, we are securing reoccurring revenue for companies that increase profitability
Technology Upgrades
Another often overlooked opportunity is technology upgrades. Training your sales staff and even service technicians to watch out for clients with older technology can reap major benefits. When you bring new technology to your clients, you show another value that you bring to the table. Even if your client isn’t ready to make an upgrade, you can easily plant a seed that will get their minds and budgets rolling.
An easy example is a customer with an older intercom door access system
An easy example is a customer with an older intercom door access system. This may have met their needs 10 years ago when it was installed, but the office has grown and perhaps an integrated card access intercom system is a great technology upgrade. Bringing this to the customer will once again show that you are the “subject matter expert” and your customer will be more apt to refer you to their friends and colleagues.
Another easy way to find technology upgrades is to dig through your ageing client list and build a list of potential targets that you have not visited lately. If you keep records of what was installed previously, it will make it easier to plan ahead and bring solutions to your next visit, saving your sales staff time and again building confidence with your clients.
Preventive Maintenance And Service Agreements
One thing that sales teams often miss is the opportunity to add service agreements and preventative maintenance agreements. Even if a customer already has an access control system, they may not have a service provider and may be interested in securing a service agreement. Typically, a service agreement can be written to cover all parts and labor or just labor for an annual feeShowing the value of a service agreement is paramount, adding annual or semi-annual preventative maintenance to your service agreement is one way to add value. Inspecting locking mechanisms, request to exit motions and buttons, door status switches, headend equipment, batteries and power supplies, can save your customer from a costly after-hours service call or the inconvenience of a non-functioning access control system during business hours. Additionally, checking computer hardware and software logs for errors can save a customer from a catastrophic failure.
Typically, a service agreement can be written to cover all parts and labor or just labor for an annual fee. It is helpful to come up with a percentage of the install value that makes sense so that your sales team can easily quote a service agreement for your customer. Offering several levels of service also opens the table for negotiations. You can offer an “all parts and labor 24/7” or a “parts and labor M-F 8AM-4PM”, as an example. Offering guaranteed response times can also be a marketing strategy.
Critical Area Access Management
Checking computer hardware and software logs for errors can save a customer from a catastrophic failureA 24-7 facility that has 200 employees moving in and out of critical areas may be a great potential customer for a high-level service agreement with semi-annual preventative maintenance and a guaranteed 4-hour response time. Where a small office that is only open during standard business hours may be better suited for a labor only M-F with annual preventative maintenance inspection.
The point is that a creative, intentional, and focused approach to access control can yield the fruit that brings long-term success to your team. Building a plan and learning from each prospect, sale, and installation will develop a process that brings results. Attending a trade specific expo like ESX will give you the opportunity to meet with manufacturers and other integrators that can help you implement a product offering and strategy for success.

Considering how much the modern smartphone has become a common everyday tool and cultural icon, it’s hard to believe it has only been with us for a relatively short space of time. The first Apple iPhone was launched in 2007 and yet in a little over a decade the smartphone has become as essential as our keys or wallet.
From its conception as a multi-faceted communications device, it has morphed into something far more integrated in our daily lives. Services such as Apple Pay, Android Pay and PayPal have seen the smartphone become a credible replacement for cash and cash cards, but equally, it is possible to replace access cards and keys as well.Smartphones can easily receive authentication credentials remotely and access can be confirmed or denied instantly
The ability to accurately authenticate an individual and the applications this offers for security purposes, is something that the security industry needs to continue to embrace and further promote to our customers.
Considerable Advantages
Most security professionals understand the potential benefits of using mobile device authentication, with flexibility being the key advantage. Smartphones can easily receive authentication credentials remotely and access can be confirmed or denied instantly. Equally, smartphones already contain many secure options to ensure they are only used by the authorized user – fingerprint and face recognition, as well as pattern authentication and PIN, being prime examples.
Unfortunately, there is still a lack of awareness amongst some security operators, customers and the public of these exciting benefits. Potentially there may also be some reluctance, in certain quarters, to trusting a mobile device with physical security. A lack of trust in seemingly ‘unproven’ technology is not unusual, but the security industry needs to demonstrate reliability along with the considerable security and convenience benefits of using it.
Trusted Part Of Security Network
Many smart devices already securely bind the mobile device with the right person by using 2-factor authenticationMobile device security needs to earn its trust, in much the same way as any other new ground-breaking application. In fairness to the doubters, it’s not hard to imagine how much of a risk a badly protected mobile device could be to any secure network!
There are two key obstacles that smartphones need to clear before they can become a trusted part of the security network though. Firstly, that they are secure enough to be trusted as part of a security network, and secondly that they can reliably identify an authorized user in a real-world environment.
Many smart devices already securely bind the mobile device with the right person by using 2-factor authentication. For example, this could combine a PIN code with the fingerprint or face of the authorized individual.
In areas with particularly high security, you could also implement a wall-mounted biometric reader (fingerprint, facial recognition or iris scan) to add a further level of protection and ensure there is no wrongful use of the mobile device.
Security tokens or access cards are typically rigid in their programming, only allowing access to certain areas
Security By Location
With its many and varied functions, undoubtedly one of the most useful systems on any smartphone is its GPS location tracking. It’s also a perfect tool to assist with security systems interaction.A benefit of using smart device authentication is the cost savings over operating traditional tokens
Consider any secure facility – it will feature different levels of access. This can vary from a humble canteen and break-out areas, right through to secured doors around potentially dangerous or highly sensitive areas - such as plant rooms, or even a nuclear facility!
Security tokens or access cards are typically rigid in their programming, only allowing access to certain areas. A smartphone, however, can be granted or denied access depending on the location of the request by the individual – GPS literally adds a level of extra intelligence to security.
Personal Items
Using QR codes seem to be a simple but reliable identity and access control authentication optionMobile devices tend to be guarded and protected with the same concern as your money or your keys. Many of us literally carry our mobile device everywhere with us, so they are relatively unlikely to be misplaced or lost – certainly in comparison to a key card for example.
Also, think about how often you use or hold your smartphone – some estimates suggest 2,600 times each day! With that level of interaction, you’ll be aware very quickly if it’s been misplaced, not least because of the inconvenience and cost to replace it. This level of personal connection makes it perfect for use with security systems.
Cost Savings
Another obvious benefit of using smart device authentication is the cost savings over operating traditional tokens. No more plastic badges, access cards, lanyards, printers and consumables used to administer security. This is something the security industry really needs to shout about!
It will come as no surprise to hear that smartphones are exceptionally common too. Figures suggest that in 2015 there were nearly 41m in use in the UK and this is predicted to rise to 54m by 2022. With the UK population being just over 65m, that is a very high percentage of people already carrying this technology.
Using a resource that people already have, and which is highly secure, makes unquestionable financial as well as practical sense.
GPS location tracking is a perfect tool to assist with security systems interaction
Integrated Technology
Agreeing on common and shared open protocols has unfortunately been one of the stumbling blocks for the security industry in adapting to a predominantly smartphone authentication approach. NFC (Near Field Communications) technology in mobile phones and smart devices has failed to be the universal success it promised.Not everyone has an iPhone, but it is such an important segment of the market for customers
Mobile technology trends have dictated to the systems that use it. Apple’s earlier (Pre iOS 11) decision to restrict the use of NFC to Apple Pay on its devices has had a profound effect on the implementation of NFC in other applications too. Not everyone has an iPhone, but it is such an important segment of the market that other manufacturers are wary of how customers will be able to use any new technology.
We have seen a much bigger focus on using Bluetooth Low Energy technology on mobile devices instead. With providers such as HID Global, STid in France and Nedap in the Netherlands now concentrating on developing Bluetooth Low Energy readers and mobile credential applications, this seems like a highly credible alternative.
Along with NFC and Bluetooth Low Energy options, there also seems to be a lot of interest in using QR codes as simple but reliable identity and access control authentication. These can easily be displayed on a screen or printed if necessary, giving great flexibility over the type of technology that is used in the future.
Upgrading Existing Security Systems
There are strong arguments for many businesses to continue using MIFARE+ systems if they suit operations well We are steadily seeing the signs of smartphone authentication replacing the cards and tokens we have been familiar with. However, many consumers still want options rather than to just be railroaded down one path.
A business that has invested in cards or tokens will want to use that technology investment fully. The changes will come when readers are updated – this is when security specifiers and installers need to promote the advantages of dual-technology readers, which offer options to include smartphone authentication into the mix.
There is still considerable diversity amongst smart devices, the operating systems they use, and the security technology employed by each. Android, Apple iOS and Blackberry devices all vary with regards to the biometric authentication available, so security administrators may need to be flexible on the types of authentication they accept.
Interestingly, card technology has also progressed at an astonishing speed too – with MIFARE+ proving to be a highly cost-effective, practical and secure system that can easily be integrated. There are strong arguments for many businesses to continue using these systems if they suit operations well.
NFC (Near Field Communications) technology in mobile phones and smart devices has failed to be the universal success it promised
Hybrid Systems
A hybrid approach may be the best answer for many security operators. This means those who choose to enjoy the benefits in terms of flexibility and convenience of smartphone authentication can do so, whilst those who are more hesitant can continue to use more traditional methods.
A hybrid approach may be the best answer for many security operators
Larger organizations may find that the swap over is a slower and more gradual process, whilst smaller start-up businesses may prefer to jump to a smartphone-based approach straight away. If security systems are well integrated but modular in their approach, then it becomes much simpler to evolve as time goes on.
Embracing The Benefits
Using their app-based systems architecture, smartphones are ideally placed to evolve with security systems in the future. There are many benefits for the security industry and our customers, but we need to remember that this move will involve a culture change for many security operators and users.
The security industry needs to be mindful and respectful of any anxiety, but also be positive and promote the considerable benefits mobile authentication offers.

Over the past few years, biometrics has rapidly expanded into consumer applications, like the financial market for customer authentication, to payment services and withdrawing cash from ATMs in high-fraud markets. However, its adoption as an additional authentication factor for physical access control systems (PACS) and other enterprise applications, hasn’t been as rapid. But this is changing.
Biometrics offers numerous benefits at the door and throughout the enterprise. With the advent of new anti-spoofing capabilities, and its integration into secure trust platforms that protect privacy and support a variety of RFID credential technologies, biometric authentication is poised to deliver a much higher matching speed and better overall performance. This will dramatically improve an organization's security, while enhancing user convenience.Newer solutions are overcoming these security and convenience hurdles to help realise the full potential of biometrics
Challenges For Biometric Authentication
Biometrics fuses convenience and security while validating “true identity” versus identity that is associated to the possession of an ID card. As an example, biometrics prevents a user from taking someone else’s card and obtaining access to privileged resources. This adds the human element to traditional methods of authentication, strengthening security by combining something the user “is” with something the user “has” or “knows.”
According to the firm ABI Research in its May 2018 study, Biometric Technologies and Applications, the total fingerprint sensor shipments for the entire consumer market is “estimated to reach 1.2 billion worldwide for 2018, thus ensuring its market dominance.”It has been far too easy for fraudsters to create a fake fingerprint and present it to a reader
Despite the benefits of fingerprint authentication in numerous consumer applications, there have been impediments to its broader adoption in the enterprise. While price has been one big roadblock, there have also historically been other reasons for its slower-than-expected growth.
First, many technologies are still vulnerable to spoofs and hacking. It has been far too easy for fraudsters to create a fake fingerprint and present it to a reader. Equally troublesome, older products have not been able to move users through the doors as fast as a simple ID card and reader. In general, all fingerprint capture technologies are not equal among older products, and there can be significant differences in performance.
Developing Technology Performance
Newer solutions are overcoming these security and convenience hurdles to help realize the full potential of biometrics. Their development has focused on three key areas:
How fingerprint images are captured – if the image can’t be properly captured, the rest of the process fails
The implementation of liveness detection to enhance trust – even in the case when the image is properly captured, if it is fake the system cannot be trusted
Optimizing performance through a combination of new technology and algorithms, while ensuring interoperability so the performance can be trusted.
The skin is illuminated at different depths to deliver much richer data about the surface and sub-surface features of the fingerprint
Optimizing Capture
The quality of the captured image is critical, across all types of fingerprints and environments. Many customers choose sensors that use multispectral imaging because it collects information from inside the finger to augment available surface fingerprint data.The skin is illuminated at different depths to deliver much richer data about the surface and sub-surface features of the fingerprint The skin is illuminated at different depths to deliver much richer data about the surface and sub-surface features of the fingerprint.
Additionally, the sensor collects data from the finger even if the skin has poor contact with the sensor, because of environmental conditions such as water or finger contamination. Multispectral sensors work for the broadest range of people with normal, wet, dry or damaged fingers, across the widest range of usage conditions – from lotions or grease to sunlight to wet or cold conditions. The sensors also resist damage from harsh cleaning products and contamination from dirt and sunlight.
Liveness Detection
Liveness detection is the ability to determine that the biometric data captured by the fingerprint reader is from a real living person, not a plastic fake or other artificial copy. An increasingly visible dimension of biometric performance in commercial applications, liveness detection is critical for preserving trust in the integrity of biometrics authentication. At the same time, it must not impede performance or result in excessive false user rejections.While liveness detection optimizes performance, it is also important to ensure that this performance can be trusted
The most trusted multispectral imaging fingerprint sensors with liveness detection provide a real-time determination that the biometric captures are genuine and are being presented by the legitimate owner, rather than someone impersonating them. This capability leverages the image-capture approach of using different colors or spectrum of light to measure the surface and subsurface data within a fingerprint.
In addition to this optical system, the biometrics sensor features several core components, including an embedded processor that analyses the raw imaging data to ensure that the sample being imaged is a genuine human finger rather than an artificial or spoof material. Advanced machine learning techniques are used so the solution can adapt and respond to new threats and spoofs as they are identified.
While liveness detection and the underlying capture technology optimizes performance, it is also important to ensure that this performance can be trusted. This requires adequate testing to ensure interoperability with template matching algorithms.
The first requirement for incorporating biometrics into a physical access control solution is a secure trust platform
Trusted Performance
The top-performing solutions capture usable biometric data on the first attempt for every user. They also speed the process of determining that the biometric data is not a fake, and they quickly perform template matching to reject impostors and match legitimate users.The card/mobile plus finger mode is one of the fastest-growing two-factor authentication use cases for securing access to both physical and digital places To trust this performance, though, the focus must be elsewhere: on interoperability with template-matching algorithms.
Extensive interoperability testing must be performed by skilled and independent third parties like the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) so that performance data can actually be trusted in all template-matching modes, and not simply a vendor claim.
Template Matching Modes
Template-on-card and card/mobile + finger modes using “1:1” template-matching profiles authenticates a person’s identity by comparing the person’s captured biometric template with one that is pre-stored in a database.
Template-on-device mode for finger-only authentication using “1:N” matching compares the person’s captured biometric template against all stored biometric templates in the system).
The card/mobile plus finger mode is one of the fastest-growing two-factor authentication use cases for securing access to both physical and digital places.Cryptography prevents any man-in-the-middle attacks while also protecting the biometric database
As an example of how to deliver trusted performance, HID Global uses the top-ranked NIST certified MINEX III minutia algorithm to ensure interoperability with industry-standard fingerprint template databases. This interoperability ensures that today’s systems, which are based on much more powerful hardware than in the past, will perform accurate 1:N identification of a full database in less than a second.
Physical Access Control Integration
The first requirement for incorporating biometrics into a physical access control solution is a secure trust platform designed to meet the concerns of accessibility and data protection in a connected environment. The platform should leverage credential technology that employs encryption and a software-based infrastructure to secure trusted identities on any form factor for physical access control, access to IT networks and beyond.
Cryptography prevents any man-in-the-middle attacks while also protecting the biometric database. This system also must encompass remote management of all readers and users, spanning all onboarding as well as template loading and enrolment activities for supported authentication modes.
Beyond the encryption of the data itself, there are now many good alternatives available for building highly secure and well protected systems
Other important focus areas include configuration and administration, plus all logs, reports and monitoring.New system architectures and data models have been created to protect personal information and maintain user privacy It should be possible to manage biometric readers as groups or individually over the network, and tools should be available to allow system administrators to manage all configuration settings from time and data to language, security and synchronisation. The system should enable continuous live monitoring of authentication, alerts and system health, and provide a rich set of associated reporting tools.
There are also backend implementation decisions to be made, including how a biometric authentication system will be seamlessly integrated into third-party systems. This is another major pain point of biometric technology. To simplify deployment, application programming interfaces (APIs) should be available for direct integration of the biometrics authentication solution with the access control infrastructure.
Privacy Considerations
Properly implemented, biometrics solutions with liveness detection also protect privacy – if you can’t use a fake finger, then even if you did obtain someone’s fingerprint data, it is meaningless. Strong and updatable liveness protection is critical if biometrics are to eliminate the need to use PINs or passwords.Strong and updatable liveness protection is critical if biometrics are to eliminate the need to use PINs or passwords
Biometrics data must be handled like all sensitive and identifying information, and properly architected system designs will always consider and protect against both internal and external threats and attacks. New system architectures and data models have been created to protect personal information and maintain user privacy.
Beyond the encryption of the data itself, there are now many good alternatives available for building highly secure and well protected systems, including the use of multi-factor and even multi-modal authentication to maintain security even if some identifying data is compromised.
Today’s modern fingerprint authentication solutions are on a fast track to deliver a unique combination of ease of use, availability and convenience and higher security to physical access control systems.
With their latest improvements in liveness detection, system architectures, performance and ability to be easily incorporated into access control solutions, they seamlessly combine security and convenience to make them a viable option when accessing a facility, networks and services. These solutions deliver a higher confidence of “who” is being admitted through the building’s front door, where it really matters.

Security beat

More good news for exhibitors on the second day of the Global Security Exchange (GSX) in Las Vegas. Brisk attendance continued early in the day, and then slowed somewhat in the afternoon, but most comments from exhibitors were positive.
Exhibitors such as Lenel were “thrilled” with the show, and noticed the steady, good traffic and lots of sales leads. Lenel’s position at the front of the hall probably helped. New developments in mobile credentialing are a big trend at GSX, and Lenel’s BlueDiamond mobile credentials are traveling on a new path, so to speak. The access control company is introducing the idea of “Pathways” as a way of automatically signaling intent to a Bluetooth-enabled smart phone to open a door.
A recognizable “pathway” is programmed into the phone, based on signals from nearby readers and locks and also geolocation signals. The system recognizes when a user travels along the pathway and automatically signals the correct door(s) to be opened along the way without the user having to touch his smart phone.A recognizable “pathway” is programmed into the phone, based on signals from nearby readers, locks and also geolocation signals
Providing A Lightweight Alternative
“When you trigger a pathway, it’s signaling intent to open the door,” says Greg Berry, Vice President Mobile Credentialing, Global Security Products, for United Technologies, parent company of Lenel.
“Pathways are customized to a user’s needs and are the common places you are going all the time.” A user who walks the same path daily to the door of an office will find that door opens automatically. Previously using mobile credentials has been “slightly more work than using a badge,” says David Weinbach, Manager of Identity and Product Innovation for Lenel. “Now with Pathways, it’s less work than using a badge.” Specifically, a user no longer has to take out his phone and push a button to signal intent.
“Rather than trying to emulate the badge, you create an experience that is better than the badge,” adds Berry. “We want to change the paradigm and turn the market on its ear.”New browser-based clients are being released with each new version of OnGuard software
Other news from Lenel includes the release of more mobile and browser-based clients for OnGuard to be used for greater convenience alongside the Window-based clients. Providing a “lightweight” alternative enables some of the functionality of the Windows client in a format that is easy to access on the go. New browser-based clients are being released with each new version of OnGuard software. Cloud-hosted systems using Microsoft Azure are also among the plans for OnGuard, which ultimately will offer on-premises and cloud options.
There’s not much comment from the Lenel folks about their parent company United Technologies’ plan to acquire S2 Security, which was announced days before the show. They would only say that the acquisition is waiting for regulatory approval, and that the expectation is that the two companies’ products will be complementary, given S2’s focus on the SMB (small and medium-sized business) market and Lenel’s strength at the enterprise level. The acquisition strategy is to grow both businesses. More details to come about the new combined company.
Modern Network Infrastructure
NVT Phybridge, a PoE connections company located near the back of the hall, also reported steady booth traffic on Day 2. “There are lots of customers and partners here,” said Steven Fair, Executive Vice President. “We are pleased with the quality of people, but not overwhelmed with the quantity.”
FacePRO AI facial recognition is used for real-time searches of terror suspects or criminals throughout a location
NVT Phybridge, which provides IP networking products for the telephony industry as well as security, is focused on networking concepts at GSX, in particular the changing requirements for network infrastructure in the age of IoT.
We are pleased with the quality of people, but not overwhelmed with the quantity.” Fair uses the term “Modern LAN” to describe the new, changing requirements and in consideration of the specific networking needs of each edge device, whether cameras, sensors, or door access control devices. “Start with the edge device — what does it need from the network? What are its needs and have there been any innovations to enable you to connect to the network more economically?” asks Fair.
There is also a green aspect to designing network infrastructure. Can existing equipment, such as coaxial or single twisted-pair cabling, be used, and thus save on disposal costs of the used cabling as well as lowering installation costs?
Among NVT Phybridge’s offerings that can serve the changing networking needs in the IoT era is Smart Path PoE, which offers smart power, smart network access and secure connections. The CLEER family of products provides ethernet over existing coaxial cabling to enable easy transition from analog to IP cameras. The PoLRE products supply ethernet and power to travel over a single unshielded twisted pair cable with reach over 400 meters.
The products have been used recently to transition a series of cruise ships from analog to IP video without having to replace cabling and spending only two days in dry dock for the installs.
A New Focus Away From AI
Panasonic is looking to apply AI-based capabilities to vehicle recognition in the near future, with the ability to identify vehicle characteristics Deep learning and artificial intelligence (AI) seem to be taking a lower profile at this show, perhaps signaling the end of the hype. Companies that mention AI point to specific products that use the technology and are currently available.
For example, Panasonic is featuring its FacePRO AI-based facial recognition system. The system uses face images captured from video — grabbing up to 30 to 35 faces a second as video is recorded. The system saves the best of those face images, eliminating extensive duplication, as thumbnails, which are linked to the video footage where the faces appear.
To find video in which a face appears, the operator merely drags-and-drops the thumbnail image and commands the system to “go fetch” video that contains that face. The system then produces a timeline showing where the face appears in the feed from each video camera on the premises, so an operator can track the movements of a suspect throughout a facility. The tool helps to simplify and shorten the workflow of locating a suspect in real-time and is affordable for a wider range of uses beyond the traditional airports or high-end applications.
The FacePRO software is offered on any Panasonic camera, and works with a separate FacePRO server that is integrated with the video recorder. The system can be added easily to existing systems and is useful for such applications as real-time searches for terror suspects or other criminals throughout a location.
Panasonic is also looking to apply AI-based capabilities to vehicle recognition, too, in the near future, with the ability to identify vehicle characteristics such as color, type of vehicle and direction of travel.
On the VMS side, Panasonic is transitioning its Video Insight software to a modular approach, tailoring solutions for a growing range of vertical markets, such as transportation and retail, all using “plug-ins” that enhance operation of Video Insight software. No additional license fees are involved
That’s just a sampling of what I saw on Day 2 of the show. I have more to share in a final show report, including what I see tomorrow on the final (shortened) day.

Newly modernized halls with lots of daylight will house hundreds of exhibitions and conference events at the upcoming Security Essen 2018 at Messe Essen, Germany. A new layout and hall numbering system will be unfamiliar to past attendees but promises to simplify the experience as it brings together attendees and exhibitors.
European Physical Security Market
Security Essen is an international trade fair, but the emphasis is more on German, Austrian and Swiss companies. In all, Security Essen will feature 1,000 exhibitors from 40 nations. The trade fair has more of a continental European “flavor” compared to IFSEC, which focuses more on the U.K market. At the last Security Essen in 2016, organizers reported about 40,000 visitors including conference participants, VIP guests, members of various delegations and journalists. Security Essen 2018 has more of a continental European “flavor” compared to IFSEC, which focuses more on the U.K market
“This year, we have sharpened the profile of Security Essen,” says Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen, a trade fair, congress and event organiser with its own exhibition grounds. “The trade fair has become considerably more digital, more modern and more interactive. Due to the optimized hall layout, we are offering our exhibitors and visitors the best possible experience with short paths and direct communication.”
Newly Modernized Messe Essen
The newly modernised site of Security Essen will encompass eight halls, newly renumbered and with the subject areas reorganised, too. Visitors will find Services in Hall 1; Access, Mechanatronics, Mechanics and Systems in Halls 2 and 3 and the Galeria; Perimeter Protection in Hall 3; Video in Halls 5 and 7; and Fire, Intrusion and Systems in Halls 6 and 7.
A helpful smart phone app, downloadable free from the Google Play Store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iOS), will be available two weeks before the event and include a show floor plan; the exhibitor list with booth numbers and contact information; and an overview of the supporting program. A separate hall – Hall 8 – will house new Cyber Security and Economic Security categories.
Cyber Security Conference
At the new Cyber Security Conference, located prominently at the new East Entrance, experts will share their knowledge about the more pressing challenges and potential of cybersecurity. The program opens and closes on 25 and 28 September with the main topic “Opportunities and Risks of Cyber Security”. On 26 September, discussions and lectures will center on “Entry, Admission, Access: Identification Options”.A helpful smart phone app, downloadable free will be available two weeks before the event and include a show floor plan
On 27 September, the topic will be smart homes and focus on “Connected Building, Security in the Buildings of the Future”. Speakers will include the president of Germany’s Federal Office for Information Security, who will address cybersecurity as a challenge for politics, business and society. The fair organises the conference in cooperation with the BHE Federal Association of Security Technology and the technical support of the Federal Office for Information Security.
In Hall 8, a new Public Security Forum will enable visitors to experience digital security technologies for public spaces from the areas of sensors/IoT, cyber security and surveillance. The products and solutions will be installed in four different building scenarios (town hall, school, hospital and library) and it will be possible to test them extensively. The forum, including lectures and discussions, will target municipal decision makers and planners of public spaces.
Comprehensive Program
A Security Expert Forum in Hall 2 will present a continuous program with more than 90 presentations during the period of the fair. Visitors will obtain information and solution ideas about all six subject areas covered at the fair, and the program will begin with a keynote lecture each morning and finish with a live demonstration in the evening.
On the first day of the fair (25 September), Security Essen’s Career Forum will introduce retrainees, students, trainees and graduates to companies from the security industry. Targeted and professional communication will be established between companies and job applicants to facilitate making contacts, developing networks, and filling actual vacancies.
Thursday (27 September) will be observed as Fire Prevention Day, and a Drone Course will be provided each day in Hall 7. One day admission to Security Essen is €41; a four-day ticket is €105. Advance sale tickets are discounted.

What happens to a company’s data in the case of a disaster such as 9/11 or Hurricane Sandy? How can a company recover from a disaster and continue their business uninterrupted? It’s a complicated challenge – and one many security professionals and risk management professionals must consider. Companies like Recovery Point provide resources to help a company survive a catastrophic event and keep its computer programs and business processes running. Their customers include large, well-known companies and the government.
“When big disasters happen, people begin rethinking what they need to protect against,” says Dick Fordham, Director of Marketing and Strategy, Recovery Point. “We try to imagine the worst that can happen, and put in place adequate measures to provide the security in those areas.”
Recovery Point is a national provider of integrated business continuity and disaster recovery systems. The company stores copies of its customers’ critical enterprise data on its servers in multiple locations. Recovery Point enables customers to bring their systems and networks back up and let employees continue working despite any damage from the disaster. “We’re not a big company – about 150 employees – but we can service the biggest clients because we provide a high degree of personalized service,” says Fordham.
There is also a 45,000-square-foot facility in Gaithersburg, Maryland, where clients’ data can be stored up to 30 days on disk and up to seven years on tape
Client Data Storage And Backup
Recovery Point’s flagship facility is located on a 17-acre private campus in Germantown, Maryland; about 30 miles northwest of Washington, D.C. There is also a 45,000-square-foot facility in Gaithersburg, Maryland, where clients’ data can be stored up to 30 days on disk and up to seven years on tape in high-end, secure vaults. There are also two 100-seat work areas where displaced workers from customer companies can continue to perform their duties – one in Gaithersburg and another one in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Recovery Point is also a tenant in a data center in Mt. Prospect, Illinois, providing an additional, redundant location to store data in case of a disaster.
Recovery Point offers cloud backup strategies to handle data from major computer systems used by large companies; whether it’s mainframe computers, AIX operating systems or iSeries. In addition to providing recovery services in case of a disaster, the company works with companies daily to test and maintain their systems and to provide proof-of-concept demonstrations.
Concentric Circles Of Security
Security is a large part of the services Recovery Point provides. The company leverages the most secure approaches and technologies to ensure that customers’ data is protected, including the familiar “concentric circles of security” approach familiar to most security practitioners. At the center of the circle is the data of customer companies, what Fordham calls ‘the crown jewels.’ Recovery Point uses a combination of cyber, network and physical security to protect a customer’s data assets. “If their data is gone or corrupted, their business is gone or corrupted,” says Fordham.
Location of the data center(s) is the first stage of protecting the backup data. Recovery Point is located outside urban areas, away from likely terrorist threats, in an area that is not prone to hurricane or tornado activity. The ‘geographically stable’ area is above the 100-year floodplain. At the perimeter, there is no signage identifying the company or its mission. An anti-ram barrier topped with a 10-foot personnel security fence encircles the campus. At the gate, visitors must be validated remotely or by authorized badge and security code. Inside the perimeter, there are hydraulic anti-vehicle barriers that can resist a 30-ton truck going 50 miles per hour. Bollards at four-foot intervals keep vehicles away from the building.
Visitors require access badges and receptionists at multiple sign-in desks are located behind ballistic-rated bullet-proof glass
Inside, visitors require access badges and receptionists at multiple sign-in desks are located behind ballistic-rated bullet-proof glass. Badges allow access only to the specific areas a visitor needs, whether it is the location where their data is stored, temporary work areas, meeting rooms or overnight sleeping quarters. Two-factor authentication includes iris-scan, fingerprint and voice recognition biometrics.
Data Security Process
Independent certification, including auditing of processes and physical boundaries around the data, meets standards such as the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) and the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP).
The network and power must also be stable and Recovery Point has Uptime Institute Tier 3 certification, which includes redundant, switchable systems. There is an A side and B side to each system; if one side is ‘down’ for maintenance or a malfunction, the other side is fully functional to ensure uninterrupted service.
“Customers have already had one disaster,” says Fordham. “We make it as painless as possible for them not to worry about their data, to make them feel secure. In a disaster there are other things to worry about, such as their home and families. We want security you can see and security you can feel.”

Case studies

Serving a large geographical area of the North Island of New Zealand, the Waikato District Health Board (Waikato DHB) provides hospital and community-based health services to a population of nearly 400,000 people.
With a wide range of security needs that include protecting staff and patients, securing high-risk facilities, restricting unauthorized access to medication and medical equipment, and streamlining contractor and car park management, Waikato DHB required a security solution that could be applied to both high and low security areas. The system al so needed to provide a comprehensive audit trail and detailed reporting, to identify access movements by employees and help meet legal requirements around the safe and secure storage of medication and equipment.
Gallagher Single Access Card Control System Gallagher’s access control solution for Waikato DHB utilizes a single access-card system that simply and instantly updates access permissions
Gallagher’s access control solution for Waikato DHB utilizes a single access-card system that simply and instantly updates access permissions, as well as streamlining car parking services. Where high-level security is needed, Gallagher’s system offers Waikato DHB the ability to lock-down areas of the hospital when required, isolating areas and restricting access. Gallagher’s Command Center Mobile application also delivers duress notifications from buttons located around the hospital directly to a guard's mobile device. Electronic Tag Boards allow contractors to easily sign on and off of the site, ensuring Waikato DHB meets health and safety requirements.
In an environment where access profiles change on a daily basis as staff move between different departments, Gallagher’s access control system and Command Center central management platform ensure staff can approach doors with the confidence that they can enter or leave areas as necessary. The access card system has also reduced the risks associated with handling keys, along with providing detailed reports to meet comprehensive auditing requirements, saving time and cost.
'Security Ward Standard'
Waikato DHB's experience with Gallagher products ultimately led them to develop a 'Security Ward Standard' detailing the minimum-security equipment required for new buildings, greatly reducing time spent producing specification documents and gathering approvals. As Waikato DHB's security requirements continue to evolve, Gallagher’s systems provide future-proofing with a software maintenance agreement ensuring they operate the very latest software available.
Fast Facts About The Project
Industry: Healthcare
Business type: Hospital
Number of employees: 6,500
Site Size: 18 hectares with 176,000 sq.metres of buildings
Number of doors: Over 730 access-controlled doors; 40 alarmed and monitored refrigerators/freezers; 15 carpark barrier arms; 1 gate.
Gallagher solutions and technology utilized:
Command Center
Controller 6000
T-Series readers
Tag Boards
Car park Management

Losing keys is a given. It’s just something that happens at some point. One study in the UK estimated around 10,000 annually end up just in the refuse, by mistake*. At CROUS Montpellier student accommodation block in southern France, they sought a solution to lost keys and the other hassles of managing an outdated mechanical master-key system for a large facility with a transient population.
Aperio Wireless Locking Devices
CROUS Montpellier fixed lost key problems by exchanging their mechanical locks for Aperio cylinders. Aperio wireless locking devices with built-in RFID readers are already trusted at universities all over Europe to protect staff, students and assets against burglary and unauthorized intruders.
Easy-to-fit Aperio locks have transformed facility management for the accommodation block. To date, 1,500 wireless Aperio cylinders are seamlessly integrated online with their ARD security system, which gives facility managers an overview of block security in real time.
Aperio Cylinders Integrated With ARD Security System
Now, when a student loses their key-card, it’s simple for a site manager to cancel the old credential and issue a new one. There is no need to engage a locksmith to replace physical locks, saving everyone’s time and CROUS money. A constant drain on resources has been eliminated.
Aperio easily integrates with payment and other smart-card systems, as well as access control
Because Aperio integration at CROUS is online, managers block lost credentials quickly using the software, without visiting the door. It is just as easy to de-authorize credentials for students who leave, even if they forget to return their smart-card. An operator simply removes them from the system database, and they are locked out.
Aperio-Access Control System Integration
Aperio easily integrates with payment and other smart-card systems, as well as access control. “Aperio provides a comfortable access solution. Our students can access their accommodation, use the printer and pay in the canteen with the same card,” explains Cyril Combacal at CROUS Montpellier.
Because Aperio is easily scalable and can expand any security system when needs change, investments in new wireless locking can be rolled out over time. It has made logistics and budgeting much easier for CROUS. Refurbishment at CROUS Montpellier is ongoing: up to 500 new Aperio cylinders are installed efficiently and wirelessly every year.

A chain of one-stop shopping destination is one of the pioneers of discount shopping center in the UAE and Dubai. With a selected chain of suppliers, they offer the widest choices of products at very affordable prices.
The products of this retail chain range from daily food items to beauty products and perfumes. Household items such as kitchenware, tableware, appliances, decors and electronics including mobile phones and computer accessories are also available here. The store offer apparels such as ladies wear, menswear, and children’s wear, in addition to shoes, bags, school and office supplies. Branches of this retail chain are located in more than eight locations with the one in Sharjah being the biggest branch till date.
Easy Attendance Management
Since branches of this retail chain are spread across UAE, managing attendance of every employee became a tedious task. Moreover, keeping track of each of their IN and OUT timings, overtime, leaves, and shift management for multiple locations from a single location was another challenge the retailer faced. Attendance management, multiple shift management and over time calculation became tricky challenges to deal with. Apart from that, they required specific type of reports to map everything department or location wise.
Matrix offered its dynamic range of biometric hardware products along with the software solutions to complement the devices
Matrix offered its dynamic range of biometric hardware products along with the software solutions to complement the devices. As the retail chain is an exponentially growing company building stores at several locations, Matrix offered its Time-Attendance module along with fingerprint and card based door controller, COSEC DOOR FOT. This solution assisted in easy attendance management of employees along with their shift and overtime management.
Analysis Of Employees’ Attendance
The solution also allowed generation of several specific types of reports with detailed filtering options for smooth process and analysis of employees’ attendance details. Matrix People Mobility Management solution assisted the retail chain achieve following results:
Centralized Attendance Management and Monitoring
Easy Shift & Schedule Management
Elimination of Overtime Issues
Smooth HR Process with Various Precise Reports
The products used for providing solutions:
COSEC DOOR FOT - Fingerprint and Card based Door Controller for Time-Attendance
COSEC CENTRA ME - Application Server Platform with 500 or more Users and Expandable up to 1,000 Users
COSEC ME TAM - Time-Attendance Module for 500 or more Users
COSEC USER100 - User license for 100 users

Traditionally, many stores have used an assortment of tags and labels on a diverse range of merchandise, most of which were designed for an entirely different set of products. As a result, many apparel retailers have recognized that in some instances merchandise and textiles are being damaged. Checkpoint Systems, renowned supplier of source-to-shopper solutions, has therefore developed an innovative new anti-theft solution to meet their specific requirements – Mini NeedleLok.
Mini NeedleLok Anti-Theft Solution
Designed to protect all types of garments, including very thin fabric, the one-piece solution deters thieves while preventing damage that would usually occur on application of pinned security tags. While other products on the market feature a hinged mechanism which can snag and rip textiles, Mini NeedleLok uses a needle in place of a separate pin, which separates the fibers rather than breaking through them. This allows store assistants to gently spread fabric threads on application to avoid leaving a visible hole after removal.
In order to reduce time spent on in-store tagging labor, the Mini NeedleLok mechanical design allows quick and easy application, while the solution’s wide opening also allows freedom of placement anywhere on the garment.
Minimum Product Damage Risk The Mini NeedleLok speeds up the self-checkout process
The Mini NeedleLok also speeds up the self-checkout process. It can be removed quickly and efficiently at the point-of-sale, thanks to its single-piece design and wide opening, enabling store associates to assist with other enquiries, improving the in-store customer experience. It also eliminates the risk of damage to the merchandise, or injury to the customer, as the needle is never exposed.
Not only that, with 70% of purchase decisions made at the shelf, Mini NeedleLok has been designed with display in mind. Its sleek look and smart black color ensures it doesn’t impede on the garment’s aesthetics in order to help turn a browser to a buyer. For those retailers wishing to take their visual merchandising a step further, the solution can also be customized, from adding a logo to a bespoke colorway that matches the company’s branding.
Anti-Theft Retail Solution
Irene Fernandez, Product Management Europe at Checkpoint Systems, commented:
“We’re more customer focused than we have ever been in our history, which is demonstrated through the diverse range of solutions that we now offer retailers across a variety of markets. With the Mini NeedleLok, we took our existing technologies and created a product that fits our apparel customers’ requirements - an effective anti-theft solution that protects merchandise, with the added benefit of being customizable. This is ideal for fashion brands where aesthetic is crucial to their identity.”

Globally-renowned Pay on Foot parking systems manufacturer, DESIGNA, has worked with the White Rose shopping center in Rhyl, North Wales, to update its car parking system to the company’s advanced ABACUS software and equipment.
Contactless Card Payment The installation included new state-of-the-art entrance and exit terminals accepting tap in/tap out contactless card payment technology
After many successful installations abroad, the shopping center is the first DESIGNA site in the UK to have installed its new tap in/tap out contactless credit card technology.
The installation included new state-of-the-art entrance and exit terminals accepting tap in/tap out contactless card payment technology. There are also three full pay stations, a DBS server, manual pay station and intercom. All of this helps to improve the efficiency and security of the car park, which is popular with shoppers due to its seafront location.
As the first part of the shopping experience, the convenience and availability of a car park is crucial to the overall service and satisfaction of a customer. DESIGNA recognized this and developed ABACUS, an advanced car park access system that intelligently integrates various elements to create the ultimate system that is highly reliable and requires less maintenance. It can also cope with large volumes of traffic while providing the highest level of monitoring to ensure a secure parking environment.
ABACUS Car Park Access System
The parking system is barrier controlled and makes use of DESIGNA barcode ticket technology. In addition to the standard ticket technology, the car park offers the facility to tap in/tap out using a contactless credit card. This operates with a unique identifier from the credit/debit card as a substitute for a ticket for the duration of the stay at the car park. When the customer presents a contactless card on entry, it recognizes them and by tapping again at the exit it automatically calculates the tariff and allows payment to take place at the exit. The system has three pay on foot machines which accept coins, notes and credit cards.
With more than 30 stores, White Rose shopping center, Rhyl’s number one shopping destination, has a wide range of quality stores. Located in the center of the town, White Rose is a short walk from Rhyl’s seafront, railway station and sea aquarium, and has direct access car parking for 300 vehicles. The center previously had a chip coin solution installed on site.
Advanced Ticket Machines
The biggest advantage of having the DESIGNA system in place is the easy payment method"
Sue Nash, Center Manager at the White Rose commented, “The biggest advantage of having the DESIGNA system in place is the easy payment method. The advanced ticket machines make it possible to pay using several means, therefore reducing the problem of queuing at the pay machines and having to pay with change. Another payment option we now have is the facility to pay through mobile devices and via contactless cards.”
She continued, “The majority of people move around with credit cards rather than cash and having a versatile payment option in the car park makes for a painless process. The maintenance of the system at our local level was extremely important to avoid costly and timely engineer callouts. Simple things like ticket and coin jams, system resets are now extremely easy to resolve as is the exchange of entry tickets when required. I would certainly recommend the DESIGNA system to others and we are extremely pleased with the results.”
Car Parking Ease And Convenience
Specifier Andrew Bailey, of Parking Ideas, commented, “Parking Ideas is a complete car parking and transportation consultancy that helps institutions, property owners, landlords and managing agents develop and optimize their assets. I have worked with the White Rose shopping center for a number of years and following a competitive tender found that DESIGNA’s systems best suited the client’s requirements.”
He continued, “The ABACUS system is good value, commercially viable and ticked all the right boxes for the White Rose. It is very important to have the facility to pay by card, so the payment terminals having this feature are vital to the center and have made all the difference to the running of the car park. Parking Ideas has been in the parking industry for more than 15 years, so we have worked with DESIGNA before and are very happy with the end result.”
DESIGNA Ticket Terminals The car park’s entrance and exit are installed with DESIGNA In+ and Out+ ticket terminals so that using the site is fast and easy
The car park’s entrance and exit are installed with DESIGNA In+ and Out+ ticket terminals so that using the site is fast and easy. The advanced terminals operate on the lowest energy consumption of their class with the ability to hold more tickets than before, with the bin adapting itself to the fill quantity. Customers are greeted with excellent user-friendliness due to the simplicity of the equipment and illuminated display with clear instructions.
The four-way barcode readers also ensure visitors can insert their ticket any way round into any of the pay stations around the site.
DESIGNA Pay On Foot Machines
For payment, three of DESIGNA’s new Pay on Foot machines are in place in the car park. This allows customers to pay for their visit before returning to their car and exit the car park more quickly. The pay station is deliberately designed to allow disabled customers to pay freely without assistance. Each of the pay stations is installed with an interactive monitor that makes it easy to pay and offers several different languages.
Shopping center management has full control of the ABACUS system through the DBS server, with a manual pay station (MPS) to allow them to create or override payments. The control room also links with the ticket and payment terminals via a DESIGNA VoIP Intercom to assist customers if required.
Global Implementation
DESIGNA has more than 15,000 systems installed globally across a wide range of car park situations
DESIGNA’s parking systems are used in a number of impressive shopping centers around the world. These include the Dundrum shopping center in Dublin, the Mid Valley Megamall in Malaysia and the Mall of Emirates in Dubai. In the UK the Belfry shopping center in Redhill, the Woolshops shopping center in Halifax and the Wellgate center in Dundee have also benefited from the ABACUS system.
Recognized worldwide for its high quality and intelligent systems, DESIGNA has more than 15,000 systems installed globally across a wide range of car park situations, including shopping centers, airports and hospitals. ABACUS is one of the company’s innovations and demonstrates the endless possibilities available to car park operators. The future-proof technology allows for expansions of premises or new property acquisitions by allowing additional systems to be added to the network. In its many global applications, ABACUS has proved to be an effortless system for both operators and users and is a great investment for companies looking to the future.

Comelit has worked sensitively on site at Rathview Mental Health Facility, to supply door entry solutions to ensure a therapeutic and safe environment is created for the benefit of residents, staff and visitors.
Comelit Door Entry Solutions
Situated on a rural greenfield site on the outskirts of Omagh, Rathview Mental Health Facility is a new c£2.8 million, 1169m² site that contains a twelve-bed Discharge Unit and a six-bed Recovery Unit, arranged around two central courtyards. With its innovative design, the unit aims to increase the range of community-based mental health services available in Northern Ireland.
Owned by The Western Health and Social Care Trust and designed by award winning Todd Architects, Comelit worked sensitively with electrical consultants on site, WYG Belfast, from the tender process to project completion, understanding the full specification requirements from the entrance through staff stations and concierge resources.
Healthcare Security And Safety Comelit was specified through evidence of its understanding of the site requirements, along with the system being IP based, hence highly flexible and configurable"
Says Gary Hewitt, Consultant at Chubb NI Ltd, who worked on Rathview Mental Health Facility: “This was an incredibly sensitive works program, where the design of the building was not just important from an aesthetic perspective, but also to ensure a positive impact on the recovery process for residents; and for staff to operate in an environment where they feel safe and secure.”
“Comelit was specified through experience and evidence of its understanding of requirements on site, together with the system being IP based, hence highly flexible and configurable. These elements came together to allow for residents to experience independence in a domestic environment, with autonomous access to their accommodation.”
316 Sense Panels
In total, Comelit was specified for the door entry systems for all four entrance points to the facility, and a total of four 316 Sense panels installed, along with two staff stations and a concierge unit.
Each of the twelve apartments were fitted with a pull cord and emergency response button, cabled into Comelit’s Mini handsfree monitors. Designed to operate through Comelit’s innovative VIP system, it utilizes the Security Systems Network and allows a priority call to the concierge in case of emergency.
Patients, Staff And Visitors’ Safety
Mike Campbell, Business Development Manager at Comelit Group UK concluded: “Rathview is an important development in the context of provision of mental health facilities across Northern Ireland, where every part of the site is seen as potentially having therapeutic value. We have worked in partnership with the consultants on site to create a door entry solution that can ensure a balance of a welcoming, encouraging environment, while maintaining the safety and security of residents, visitors and staff.”

Round table discussion

Even the most advanced and sophisticated security systems are limited in their effectiveness by a factor that is common to all systems – the human factor. How effectively integrators install systems and how productively users interface with their systems both depend largely on how well individual people are trained. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the changing role of training in the security and video surveillance market?

It seems there are more “bad things” happening than ever before. We hear news every day of workplace shootings and terrorist attacks, of smash-and-grab thefts and child abductions. Beyond the possible human tragedy involved, such events pose a persistent question to anyone involved in the realm of security: Could we have prevented it? The first step toward prevention is to predict or foresee an event before it happens. Too often, technology enters the picture after the fact, most commonly the use of forensic video. Isn’t there more our industry can do before such events occur? We put the question to this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How can security systems be used to predict bad things before they happen?

Once again, ISC West has come and gone. The show continues to please exhibitors and attendees. Reviews are generally glowing and enthusiastic. For all its successes, however, there is a certain repetition from year to year – a lot of the same players, the same technology trends (not to mention the same venue every year, but who doesn’t like Vegas?) But even among the repetition, there is usually at least one element that is surprising. Perhaps it’s the unexpected elements that keep us all coming back. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What surprised you most at ISC West in 2017?